The British Council has a long-standing commitment to fostering cultural relations and creating opportunities for people in the Occupied Palestinian Territories. In a country where daily challenges are significant, our mission is to empower Palestinian youth, providing them with the tools to build resilience, develop skills and unlock new opportunities for the future.
Our work spans across English and Education, Arts and Culture. In Education, we are a trusted partner of the Ministry of Education and Higher Education and other development partners like UNRWA, working together to improve the quality of teaching and learning in schools. Through initiatives like our “Teaching for Success” and “Get Speaking” programmes, we have trained over 2,100 English teachers, improving the language skills of students and educators alike. We also work with our partners to strengthen the system through evaluation and research. Additionally, through the HESPAL scholarship programme, we have supported 223 young Palestinian academics in pursuing postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhDs) in the UK. By providing access to advanced education, we are helping to nurture the next generation of leaders and strengthening capacity of institutions to shape the future of Palestine.
Our English language programmes are making a tangible impact, especially in vulnerable communities. We are establishing a network of English clubs where youth can develop their language skills in a safe, creative environment through drama, song and storytelling. As part of our Language for Resilience initiative, we also support young people and adults impacted by conflict or isolation, offering tailored programmes that respond to the needs of each community.
We offer UK qualifications like IELTS and Cambridge English Assessment, providing essential pathways to internationally recognised higher education and professional qualifications. Our reputation in English language testing continues to grow, with partner schools increasingly trusting our high-quality examination systems. Last year, we enriched the learning of 150,400 students, trained 283 teachers and 93 school leaders and delivered over 4,700 exams, reaffirming our commitment to educational excellence.
In Arts and Culture, we support emerging Palestinian artists in developing their practice through creative collaborations and provide platforms for them to showcase their work both locally and internationally. We connect the cultural sector and its professionals with opportunities in the region and the UK, such as delegations, fellowships and festivals, fostering cultural exchanges between Palestine, MENA and the UK.
Since the Cultural Protection Fund was launched in 2016, Palestine has received the largest investment, totalling £9.4 million, aimed at supporting organizations in safeguarding cultural heritage. This commitment not only preserves Palestinian identity but also promotes social cohesion, empowering the community to navigate challenges while celebrating its rich cultural heritage.
Despite ongoing challenges, we remain dedicated to building meaningful connections and creating opportunities for the people of Palestine. We look forward to working with our partners and seeking new opportunities to cultivate mutually beneficial relationships and long-term trust between the people of the UK and the Occupied Palestinian Territories.
Shahida MacDougall
Country Director – Occupied Palestinian Territories